Inside the Ten Commandments Prayer Altar, unique spiritual, tourism destination in Jos, Plateau State

By Henry Umahi

If you visit Jos, the capital of Plateau State, without going to the Ten Commandments Prayer Altar, then your trip is not complete. Shaped like the ten commandments tablets given to Moses in the Bible, the imposing monument is located at the New Jerusalem compound, in Dwei -Du, Jos South local government area.

It was erected about 2017 but formally dedicated in December 2021, with an altar and an open-air amphitheater with a capacity for thousands of people. The area where the Ten Commandments is built has a hill shaped like a lion. It is called Lion Hill because the hill looks like a lion lying down. It is also surrounded by beautiful granite rocks formation with a temperate weather.

The monument is 25 ft. high and it is said to be the largest among existing Ten Commandments monuments in Africa. Its construction was funded by senator and former Plateau State governor, Jonah Jang, through his Yeshua Kingdom Foundation International.

During the dedication of the Ten Commandments, Jang said: “This place avails us a platform where we can cry unto the Lord for the many ills that bedevil our dear state and nation today. Our peace, prosperity, unity, health, indivisibility as a nation is in place of prayer and as Christians, we must pray into existence the very thing we want from our father and our God to make it happen in our dear country.”

The 10 commandments, according to a report is “more than a religious edifice, the altar has become a symbol of resilience and unity in a region that has witnessed decades of ethno-religious violence.

“As people gather here to pray, reflect and find solace, the story of the monument and its impact on lives – spiritually, socially and economically – continues to unfold.

“The altar has grown into a spiritual hub that not only attracts Christian faithful across the country but also draws tourists, students and curious visitors intrigued by its unique presence and significance.”

For two years, it has hosted the Plateau Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival. At the last edition between November 28 and 30, 2025,  Gov. Caleb Mutfwang said: “I am especially delighted that we have once again gathered this year as one family in Christ to offer praise, worship, and thanksgiving under the banner of His boundless love. This festival is a divine expression of unity in diversity, a celebration of our faith that transcends denominational lines, fostering friendship, understanding and harmony among God’s people on the Plateau.

“The convergence of our cherished choirs, women’s fellowships, singing groups, musicians, church leaders, ministry heads, Christian organizations, political leaders, captains of industry, and indeed, sons and daughters of Plateau State and friends from across the globe, stands as a shining testimony to our collective aspiration for peace and progress, anchored in the enduring spirit of brotherhood.”

or three days, the tin-city of Jos was aglow with twinkling lights and the resounding songs of praise as the state celebrated its shared values and the magic of the season together.

Buchi, Sinach and Uche Etiaba headlined the songs festival. Many others ministered in songs and Bible recitations. Dr Paul Enenche broke the bread of life, among other ministers. It felt like a glimpse of paradise, a mini heaven.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo said: “What I have seen today has whetted my appetite for next year. I congratulate and commend the governor for the continuity. This event should be put on the turism calendar of the world.”

It hosts gospel concerts and prayer meetings, drawing visitors and promoting tourism in Plateau State.